Skin Protection: Tips To Prevent Chafing

If you’ve ever felt the stinging discomfort of chafed skin, it’s safe to say you want to avoid repeating the experience. How can you do that? Family medicine specialist Cory Fisher, DO, has some advice.

Why chafing happens

Chafing occurs when the top layer of your skin (epidermis) breaks down after rubbing against another area of skin, clothing or something else against your body. The friction irritates the skin and can leave it red, painful and itchy.

Certain areas of your body — including your inner thighs, groin, butt, armpits and breasts — are more prone to chafing. “It’s common in areas where you have natural creases and skinfolds,” says Dr. Fisher.

Body moisture and wet clothes can fuel chafing, which explains why it’s often a byproduct of sweaty summer months.

But know this: Chafing can happen anywhere on your body at any time if conditions are right.

How to stop chafing

A little pre-planning may be all it takes to avoid chafing. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your chance of feeling the pain.

Try to stay dry

Moisture is the enemy when it comes to chafing. With that in mind, Dr. Fisher suggests:

• Applying antiperspirant: Sweaty pits create a perfect environment for chafing, so reducing the amount of sweat leaking out from your underarms can help limit skin irritation.
• Using moisture-wicking powders: A few sprinkles of talcum powder or similar drying products can absorb moisture and reduce potential friction. This is especially effective below the belt in your nether regions. Ditto for your feet.
• Promptly removing wet clothes: Ever notice how wet clothing tends to stick to your skin or bunch up? That increases the chance of friction (and chafing) as the garments rub against you. Change into something dry ASAP!

Use lubricants

Friction is the root cause of chafing. Applying a lubricant to your skin, especially in areas prone to chafing, allows things to smoothly slide and glide across your body rather than rubbing you raw.

A well-placed dab of petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline®) can guard against chafing, says Dr. Fisher. Ditto for lubricating gels, creams, balms and powders.

Lubricants are especially effective if you’re exercising and doing a sweaty activity with repetitive motions. Examples include running — where jogger’s nipple is a very real concern — and cycling.

Choose the right clothing

The phrase “dress for success” applies if you want to avoid chafing. Here are a few ways your wardrobe choices can make a difference.

• Focus on fabrics: Opt for clothes made of moisture-wicking fabric if you know you’re in for a sweaty day. (That means leaving garments made of heavy or rough materials, like cotton, in the closet.)
• Get a proper fit: Tighter-fitting clothes are less likely to move and rub against your skin. Pay special attention to bras and underwear, which cover sensitive areas where you REALLY don’t want chafing.
• Cover problem areas: Skin-on-skin contact (like thighs rubbing together) can lead to chafing. The right clothes can create a barrier that protects against skin irritation.
• Pay attention to seams and tags: If something on your clothes feels like it’s hitting you funny, odds are it’ll cause issues. Look for seamless socks and tagless shirts to minimize the chance of problems.

Caring for chafed skin

Chafing happens. That’s just reality. Even if you take precautions, your skin may be worse for wear by the end of a random day. (Chances are you’ll find out when water hits the spot in the shower, too. YOUCH!)

Whether it’s armpit chafing, thigh chafing, groin chafing or chafing in any area, Dr. Fisher offers these suggestions to find relief:

• Gently clean the skin with mild soap and warm water. Pat the area dry. Don’t rub it.
• Apply petroleum jelly or an unscented moisturizer to the irritated skin.
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing that doesn’t rub against the chafed area.
• Place a bandage over chafed skin to provide a protective barrier.

With proper care, chafed skin should heal in a few days to a week.

In rare instances, chafing can lead to more serious issues. “Bacteria and fungi can enter through any break in your skin, putting you at risk for infections like cellulitis,” explains Dr. Fisher.

See a healthcare provider if chafed skin:

• Doesn’t get better after a week of home treatments
• Causes severe pain or itching
• Shows signs of infection, such as yellow pus, a foul smell or feels warm to the touch

Following Dr. Fisher’s tips to avoid chafing can help minimize your risk of dealing with the skin issue. “With moisture-wicking clothes and anti-chafe products, it’s easier to keep chafing from happening in the first place,” he says.